Near-complete spin polarization in atomically-smooth chromium-dioxide epitaxial films prepared using a CVD liquid precursor

Abstract

We have fabricated single crystal chromium dioxide (formula presented) films using chemical vapor deposition with chromyl chloride (formula presented) as a liquid precursor. Their electrical and magnetic properties have been investigated. These films are atomically smooth with a rms roughness of less than 5 Å for 1000 Å thick films. We have obtained a spin polarization of (formula presented) as determined by the technique of point-contact Andreev reflection. Magnetization and resistivity measurements on these films are in good agreement with those measured on films made with the (formula presented) solid precursor. The process using the liquid precursor is superior to other existing techniques for the preparation of single crystal single- and multilayers containing (formula presented) especially the structure of magnetic tunnel junctions. © 2001 The American Physical Society.